Custom punch and die references

[IFRs]

I'm needing to make a custom tool for punching and shearing aluminum parts. It's been years since I did this and I'm looking for forums where I can gather information about materials, techniques, vendors, etc. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[gerhardl]

My guess is that you are located in the US. Europe has probably a wider selection of specialized producers, with broader innovation and export. My advice is to include a search of Europe suppliers, perhaps especially Germany.

Suggested starting point, not necessarily to visit fairs:

http://www.tofairs.com/fairs.php?fld=18&rg=1&cnt=&cty=&sct=

 

[chicopee]

A possible reference is Die Design Fundamentals by J.R. Paquin and R.E. Crowley. I used this reference when I taught ACAD about 20 years ago and while the students used steel for their projects, aluminum as well as other metals are included.

 

[racookpe1978]

Call the manufacturer/supplier of dies: How large of a hole, how thick of the aluminum, what alloy Al, what tolerance do you need in the final hole? How many are you making?

You've got to begin by asking those questions - NOT "how to make the punch and die?